Dublin Introduction

Dublin is a great city to visit for a bit of craic, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, it offers a lot of interesting spots for the avid traveller to explore. The birthplace of many famous literary greats, such as novelist and poet, James Joyce; playwright, George Bernard Shaw; and poet, William Butler Yeats, you can, in fact, visit Dublin Writers Museum for an in-depth insight into the lives and works of these and other contributors to Irish literature.

The city boasts several more museums, some of which are a must visit for first timers as they hold a great deal of interesting details that reveal the history of Dublin, as well as Ireland. Head to the National Museum of Ireland to view a selection of artistic, cultural and natural history related items, or for a quirky option, the National Leprechaun Museum, which has been referred to as the ‘Louvre of leprechauns’ and was the first such establishment of its kind, is worth a look.

If you’re after a fun night out, head over to Temple Bar, on the south side of the River Liffey. Here you’ll find an assortment of lively pubs and restaurants set along picturesque cobbled streets. Check out The Temple Bar itself, as well as Auld Dubliner for some delicious food and a few drinks.

Speaking of drinks, there are two tours of different brews that should definitely appear on any itinerary of the city: Old Jameson Distillery, which offers a walkthrough and tasting of this famous Irish whiskey; and Guinness Storehouse. The latter takes your through a tour of the seven storey structure and includes a bit about the history of the famous Irish stout created by Arthur Guinness in 1759 who at the time signed a 9,000 year (yes, that’s correct) lease on the St. James’s Gate Brewery, so there’s no worry of it going anywhere soon. You can also frequent the oldest pub in the country, The Brazen Head, which can be found at 20 Bridge Street Lower and was established in 1198AD.

In a city that has produced so many musical geniuses; don’t forget to pay a visit to a statue in honour of Thin Lizzy bassist and vocalist, Phil Lynott along Harry Street. Make sure to put some time aside to see Trinity College, which is set within beautiful grounds and made up of magnificent architectural structures; past graduates have included Irish writer and poet, Oscar Wilde, as well as creator of Dracula, Bram Stoker.

Dublin Travel Guides

Founded by the Vikings in the 8th century, the River Liffey was later used as a base for the Norwegians while they raided the rest of the country. The settlement was named Dubh Linn, meaning black pool. It was not until the 11th century that stone fortified walls were added to protect Dublin. Residents partook in the trading of slaves and there was also a developing wool weaving industry. The first church was erected as early as 1028, as the Danes had converted to Christianity. Despite frequent sacking by the Vikings, Dublin became the most significant and strategically important town in the whole of Ireland. more...

Less than an hour's drive from the city, the Dublin Mountains, officially known as the Wicklow Mountains, provide an expansive area of wilderness, just waiting for exploration. Once home to rebels, murderers and bandits in hiding, the mountains are accessible via Military road, a British built transport route intended to help with the flushing out of these unwanted characters. The road runs from Rathfarnham in the southern suburbs of Dublin to Aghavannagh, high up in the mountains. Hikes and nature walks can be taken in the mountains by those who are brave enough. more...

Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Chase: this event is held in the lead up to the popular Cheltenham Gold Cup. The annual race is held at Leopardstown Race Course and attracts renowned trainers and horses from across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Whether you come to place a bet or just enjoy an exciting day out, the race is suitable for both young and old audiences. more...

Part of the University of Dublin, this is the oldest university in Ireland, dating back to 1592. Situated at the heart of Dublin, visitors can explore the grounds at their leisure and wind their ways through the cobbled squares, green expanses and historical buildings. The college is also the site of the Book of Kells and The Dublin Experience, two of the city's major attractions. more...

The city is served by Dublin International Airport, a single terminal facility that offers regular flights to major destinations across Europe. Situated six miles from the city centre, the airport can be easily accessed from the city. The terminal is a hub for low-cost airline Ryanair, which services almost every UK regional airport, while Aer Lingus, the national carrier also offers flights to over a dozen destinations. Those arriving from destinations in Africa, Asia, Australia and North America will likely have to change in London before catching a connecting flight to Dublin. more...

Visitors from EU countries may bring in up to 3,200 cigarettes or 200 cigars; 10 litres of spirits or 20 litres of fortified wine, 60 litres of sparkling wine, 90 litres of still wine; 110 litres of beer; and 60mls of perfume or 250mls of eau de toilette. Those arriving from outside the EU can import up to 200 cigarettes; 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of wine; and other dutiable goods to the value of 180 euros. more...